If you spot one or two small critters, it is essential to act quickly to avoid a larger infestation.
The bathroom, but also the kitchen, can quickly become a refuge for certain unwanted visitors. And no one wants to come face to face with little creatures when they prepare a good meal or when they take a shower. If, very often, they present no danger, they can sometimes be the sign of bad news.
This is the case, for example, of this creature measuring only a few millimeters which loves to settle in damp or dark environments such as bathrooms, basements or kitchens. Certainly, she does not does not bite or sting, does not transmit diseases and does not cause direct harm to humans, but its appearance can be worrying for several reasons and should alert you.
This little creature is the silverfish, a silvery and agile insect, whose presence in your home can signal a much more serious problem than its simple appearance. This creature likes dark, humid and warm places, which makes the bathroom an ideal habitat. They feed on organic residues such as hair, dead skin, paper or even glue contained in certain materials. These insects also like environments where humidity levels exceed 70%, a common condition in poorly ventilated bathrooms.
If you spot a silverfish in your bathroom, it can reveal two important things. The first is excess humidity. The proliferation of silverfish is often linked to poor ventilation of the room. This may be due to a lack of mechanical ventilation, water infiltration or leaks. Excessive humidity not only promotes these insects, but also mold and other long-term structural problems.
Their presence can therefore be an indicator of unresolved humidity problems. If these issues are not dealt with quickly, they can cause damage to walls, ceilings or wooden structures, leading to significant repair costs.
The second problem caused by silverfish is the damage to your property. They feed on fibers and cellulose-based materials (wallpaper, books, cardboard, textiles) and can therefore cause material damage. Their presence can therefore pose a problem in libraries, cupboards or even archives. Additionally, if your home contains many such items, these insects could find an all-you-can-eat buffet, increasing their presence and the nuisance that comes with them.